We are proud to be using Kodak digital radiography that reduces radiation to the patient and eliminates chemical processing that is favorable to our environment as well. Image enhancement with the use of digital radiography and Logicon software by Grumman aides in the diagnosis of disease that is often difficult to see on conventional x-ray films. Intraoral Imaging of each tooth is a valuable assistant in the diagnosis of dental problems, for patient education and for submission to dental benefit plans. Laser diagnosis of early decay with the Diagnodent is another tool used for the biting surfaces of molars. This painless tool is instrumental in finding incipient decay that would otherwise be undetectable.

When appropriate, we can use Air Abrasion to conservatively clean areas of early decay or erosion and seal or fill the areas with a tooth colored restoration. This often can eliminate the need for local anesthetic. We provide laser treatment for some periodontal, surgical and filling procedures. The Biolase Laser MD has the ability to provide more comfortable treatment, enable us to perform minimally invasive dentistry, reduce the amount of local anesthetic needed, shorten healing time and simplify the process for many treatments. All porcelain crowns and veneers have a natural enamel-like translucency used to create a natural appearance and maximize the esthetic result of your cosmetic dentistry. And we also provide “Take Home” custom bleaching trays with professional strength solutions.

Dental Implants

Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures. Implants are so well-designed, they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic.

Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. Diabetics and people with chronic bruxism (teeth clenching) are generally not favorable candidates. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene. In general, good candidates who have dental implants can expect high success rates with the procedure.

Types of implants

Full upper replacements: The upper set of teeth is replaced with implants.

Anterior replacement: Implants are used to replace the front teeth (also called incisors and cupids).

Full lower replacement: The lower set of teeth is replaced with implants. Full lower replacement usually only uses six implants (near the front), which are used to anchor a denture. This obviates the need for denture adhesive.

Posterior replacement: Implants are used to replace the bicuspids and molars (the back teeth).

Single tooth replacement

Steps for these procedures include:

Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.

Crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of a material like porcelain, placed on the top of a tooth. They are typically used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance following a restorative procedure such as a root canal. When decay in a tooth has become so advanced that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns are often used to restore the tooth. Crowns are also used to attach bridges, cover implants, prevent a cracked tooth from becoming worse, or an existing filling is in jeopardy of becoming loose or dislocated. Crowns also serve a cosmetic use, and are applied when a discolored or stained tooth needs to be restored to its natural appearance.

Procedure

A tooth must usually be reduced in size to accommodate a crown. A cast is made of the existing tooth and an impression is made. The impression is sent to a special lab, which manufactures a custom-designed crown. In some cases, a temporary crown is applied until the permanent crown is ready. Permanent crowns are cemented in place.

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Veneers

In just two or three dental visits, a veneer can reverse years of stains caused by foods, caffeine and tobacco use. Special thin laminates, called veneers, can also be used to correct discolored, worn down, cracked and chipped teeth. Veneers can also be used to close unsightly gaps between teeth. Stronger types of veneers made of porcelain, also called composite veneers, typically last longer because they are bonded to the tooth.

An impression of the tooth must be made and a veneer molded by a lab technician. Because veneers require a small amount of enamel to be removed, they are permanent and non-reversible.

The process involves buffing the tooth, removing an extremely thin layer of the tooth to allow for the thickness of the veneer, an impression of the tooth, and final bonding of the veneer to the tooth with special cement. A special light is used to complete the process.

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Emergency Dental Treatment

If you have a life-threatening or severe injury, call 911 or go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room. We can treat a variety of traumatic dental injuries, including teeth that have been chipped, moved, or knocked out entirely. Please call our office for assistance.